Genesis 37

Chapter 37: Joseph's Dreams and Betrayal

Background History and Timeline: Genesis, traditionally attributed to Moses, was written around the 15th century BCE. It covers events from the creation of the world to the patriarchs of Israel.

Locations Mentioned: The chapter primarily focuses on the land of Canaan, where Jacob and his family reside.

Themes and Conflicts: Genesis 37 narrates the story of Joseph, Jacob's favored son, and his dreams, which foreshadow his future greatness. It explores themes of jealousy, betrayal, and divine providence.

Main Characters: Joseph, Jacob (Israel), Joseph's brothers, and their father's household are the main characters in this chapter.

Specific Passages:

• Genesis 37:5-7: "Now Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers they hated him even more. He said to them, 'Hear this dream that I have dreamed: Behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and behold, my sheaf arose and stood upright. And behold, your sheaves gathered around it and bowed down to my sheaf.'"

• Genesis 37:28: "Then Midianite traders passed by. And they drew Joseph up and lifted him out of the pit, and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver. They took Joseph to Egypt."

Explanation: Genesis 37 introduces Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel, who is loved and favored by his father. Joseph's dreams, where his brothers' sheaves bow down to his, provoke jealousy and animosity among his siblings.

The chapter describes how Joseph's brothers conspire to kill him but instead sell him to a passing caravan of Ishmaelite traders, who take him to Egypt as a slave. They deceive their father Jacob by presenting Joseph's torn robe, leading Jacob to believe that Joseph was devoured by a wild animal.

Genesis 37 sets the stage for Joseph's remarkable journey from being a favored son to becoming a slave in Egypt. It foreshadows his eventual rise to power and fulfillment of the dreams God gave him.

The chapter also highlights the themes of sibling rivalry, parental favoritism, and the consequences of jealousy and betrayal. It demonstrates God's sovereignty in using even the darkest moments of human history to fulfill His divine purposes.

Moses is traditionally attributed as the author of Genesis, including Chapter 37.